Cameron Smith
Nico Williams, Athletic Club, 2024/25
© IMAGO
Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly triggered the €58 million release clause in Nico Williams’ current contract at Athletic Club.
The Spain international was expected to leave San Mames during the summer transfer window, following an immense string of performances at the 2024 European Championship, but he opted to snub significant transfer interest in favour of remaining at the club.
However, Arsenal, Barcelona, Chelsea and Manchester United remain determined to land the 22-year-old next summer and Williams has been tipped to finally depart Athletic Club in order to join one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
READ MORE: Ruben Amorim - 'Everything is so hard at Man Utd'
Real Madrid have been named as a surprise candidate to land the Spaniard in 2025, while conflicting reports state that Williams wants to join Barcelona, although Hansi Flick has vetoed the signing.
As a result, PSG are now considered the frontrunners in the race to sign the Spain winger, with Luis Enrique’s side desperate to bolster their attacking roster following the departure of Kylian Mbappe in July.
Spanish outlet Fichajes even claim that PSG have already activated Williams’ €58m release clause as they look to make a statement signing in their bid to finally win the Champions League.
READ MORE: Barcelona complete ‘best deal in the history of football’
Williams has registered two goals and five assists in 23 appearances across all competitions so far this season, and he remains a key target for almost every elite European club ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window.
The Spain star has two-and-half years remaining on his current contract at Athletic Club and his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) stands at €51.6m.
Nico Williams, Spain
© IMAGO - Nico Williams, Spain
What has Nico Williams said?
n
Back in October, Williams broke his silence on speculation linking him with an exit, although he was keen to remain focused on the task at hand for Athletic Club.
“I’m not thinking about my future now. I’m so happy to be at Athletic, fans are happy too,” Williams told El Mundo (via Metro).
“Bilbao is my home, I’m really happy and I want to enjoy it here. I want to bring Athletic at the best level. The dream is that Europa League final at San Mames."